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EVLT Postoperative Instructions

EVLT or Endovenous Laser Treatment is a laser surgery done to treat varicose veins. It is different from earlier methods in that it uses a laser fiber to puncture the vein from within. This is a minimally invasive procedure done under local anesthesia. Earlier methods used to make an incision from the groin area to draw the vein out from the thigh.

  1. Post-Op Care

    • You are given compression pantyhose to be used in the days after the surgery. These should be slept in and should be removed only when you have to take a shower. After the first couple of days or so, you can remove the compression stockings at night, but must continue to wear them during the day for approximately two weeks .

      Immediately after the surgery, a wound dressing (bandages) will be used at the site of the procedure, along with a surgical adhesive skin closure strip. You can take the dressing off to shower the day after the surgery. After about a week or so, the strip will start coming off by itself. This is a natural step and the strip should be allowed to come up. Baths in hot water must be avoided for several weeks following the surgery.

    Drug Therapy

    • Anti inflammatory drugs will be given to take care of the discomfort following the operation. The normal dosage may be ibuprofen 600 mg every 4 to 6 hours and/or acetaminophen 650 mg every 4 to 6 hours. Of course, this is a rough guideline, and the doctor in charge should be able to prescribe the right medicine depending on your condition and other factors such as your tolerance to these drugs and so on. Aspirin is best avoided, unless it is prescribed. If you develop pain, swelling, redness, fever or any other kind of discomfort, bring it to your doctor's attention immediately.

    Recovery Requirements

    • To facilitate recovery, you must walk for at least 20 minutes twice daily as soon as the doctor advises you to start walking. You may also need to raise the legs while sitting and keep them on a stool or chair for about 10 minutes three times a day. Avoid sitting for long hours in one place.

      Heavy and vigorous exercises have to be avoided for at least two weeks after the surgery. These include jogging, running, swimming, cycling, aerobics and weight training.

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